Ratschings - Racines

Idyllic villages and tranquil mountain pastures scattered in the valley bottom and lush green slopes of the surrounding mountains characterise the landscape of Ratschings, the largest municipality in the Wipptal.

The best time to discover the flora and fauna of this region is between May and June, the time when rhododendrons thrive: a natural spectacle not to be missed! This holiday region south of the Brenner is one of the most popular hiking areas in South Tyrol; as a true paradise for families and nature lovers, you will find a dense network of beautiful hiking trails that lead through untouched nature.

The origins of the settlement date back to Roman times. However, the region experienced its heyday especially in the Middle Ages due to its mineral deposits. The municipality of Ratschings has a long and fascinating mining history. The mining museum Schneeberg in the hamlet of Maiern in the rear Ridnaun valley still tells of this time. Here visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in 800 years of mining history, learn how the ore was mined and see original buildings and equipment with their own eyes. An exciting and instructive journey into the past! Further highlights in the surrounding area are the impressive baroque complex of Wolfsthurn Castle, which stands on a hill in Mareit and today houses the National Museum of Hunting and Fisheries, the miners' chapel St. Magdalena in Ridnaun and the ruin of Reifenegg. 

Numerous excursion destinations for adventurous hikes and more challenging climbs that lead through beautiful natural landscapes and blooming meadows up to a magical mountain world where impressive glaciers rise high into the sky. In addition to cosy refuges and alpine pastures, visitors can expect crystal-clear mountain lakes and breathtaking panoramic views such as the Jaufenpass, which separates the Southern Stubai Alps - with the Agglsspitze, the Hohe Kreuzspitze and Wildem Freiger - from the Sarentaler Alps in the south. From here you can admire a breathtaking, unforgettable panorama: In the west the Texel Group and the glacier giants of the Ötztal Alps, in the north the imposing peaks of the Stubai Alps, in the east the Zillertal Alps and in the south the western Dolomites up to the majestic Brenta Group. Hikers who want to experience something unique should visit Gilfenklamm, one of the most impressive places in the area, or Burkhardklamm, where you can feel the true power of nature.
In winter, the hiking paradise is transformed into a very popular ski area, with its numerous cross-country ski trails, ski and toboggan runs: a true oasis for nature lovers and winter sports enthusiasts.